Thu May 01 12:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Maine Native Role Model Takes the World by Storm

**Portland, ME** – Cape Elizabeth native Tucker Pillsbury, known professionally as Role Model, is experiencing a meteoric rise in the music industry. The 27-year-old singer-songwriter’s latest album, “Kansas Anymore,” released last July, has propelled him onto world stages, with sold-out shows and millions of views on TikTok. His feel-good video for “Sally, When the Wine Runs Out,” featuring a dance-through a Los Angeles mall, has garnered over 4 million views alone.

Pillsbury’s recent appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” further solidified his growing fame. This summer, he’ll join Gracie Abrams on her tour, including two shows at Boston’s TD Garden. A European tour is slated for November.

Despite his international success, Pillsbury remains deeply connected to his Maine roots. He credits his upbringing in Cape Elizabeth and the Americana and folk music of his parents for influencing his musical style. He even sports several Maine-themed tattoos, including the Portland Press Herald’s “P” logo. He’s planning several trips back to Maine this summer, and his mother joined him onstage at a recent Boston performance.

Pillsbury’s journey into music was somewhat accidental. After graduating from Cape Elizabeth High School and studying film at Point Park University, he experimented with recording equipment, transitioning from rap to singing. He chose the name Role Model, inspired by the Paul Rudd film.

Although the demands of touring make frequent visits home challenging, Pillsbury emphasizes the importance of his Maine connections. He fondly recalls memories of the Maine Mall and expresses his enduring love for the state, declaring that “there’s still nothing that comes close to Maine in the summer.” He looks forward to continuing his Fourth of July tradition in Portland and strawberry picking. His friendship with Gracie Abrams, who also has Maine ties, further strengthens this connection.

Despite the whirlwind of his career, Pillsbury maintains a grounded perspective, crediting his long-time Maine friends for providing essential normalcy and support amidst the hectic touring life.

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